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Oncology

WILL SILVER SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF INFECTION AROUND HIGH RISK PROSTHESES?

British Orthopaedic Oncology Society (BOOS) - 2011 Annual Scientific Meeting



Abstract

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of silver coated prostheses in preventing periprosthetic infection in a high-risk group.

Methods

We have used silver coated prostheses in 48 endoprosthetic replacements in whom there would be a high expected risk of infection.

Results

Between 2006 and 2009 48 patients had silver coated prostheses inserted; 19 primaries, 10 single-stage revisions, and 19 second-stage revisions. Of these, only one (2%) required removal following overwhelming coliform infection. There were four superficial wound infections in the primary group, none in the single-stage group, and 5 in the 2 stage group. Of these patients, one died of metastases, 7 settled with antibiotics ⊞/⊟ wound washout, and one patient is undergoing investigation.

Discussion

These early results suggest that silver coating may not prevent infection but seems to help treatment of it by allowing control with simple measures (washout). The cost of the silver coating is about £300. It will be cost effective if it reduces the overall infection risk by 1%.